Cabinet formed to support philanthropic giving activities across the Lakeshore

Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties - United Way of the Lakeshore’s (United Way) Board of Directors is excited to announce the launch of its annual community fundraising campaign, set to launch at tomorrow’s Day of Caring in Muskegon. With a bold goal of raising $2.79 million, this campaign aims to make a significant impact on the community by supporting vital programs and initiatives that address pressing community needs.

Leading the charge as the 2023 Campaign Chair is no novice when it comes to philanthropic giving at United Way. Our esteemed 2023 Campaign Chair is Jack Russell, President of Rolar Products, a veteran community leader known for his dedication to making positive change. With his proficient and visionary leadership, the 2023 community campaign is poised to engage individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the Lakeshore to come together and create collaborative solutions for the community's most pressing concerns.  

“Together, we can turn this year’s campaign from compassion into action and challenges into great opportunities. I am more than honored to serve as the Campaign Chair and I look forward to seeing an increased impact,” shares Russell. “We proposed our 2023 goal based on what our partners are telling us they need to positively impact change. When we work together, our impact is incomparable!” 

United Way is pleased to announce its 2023 Campaign Cabinet, who will be joining Russell to design and implement philanthropic giving opportunities for the Lakeshore: 

Vice Chairs

• Gary Allore, President of Trinity Health Muskegon
• Jason Olthoff, Vice President of Sales at Nichols 
• Pat Shafer, Director of Muskegon in Focus at the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce (retired)
• Kim Suarez, Vice President of Medical Operations & Customer Experience at Priority Health (retired)

Division Chairs

• Dr. Adam Bayne, Superintendent of Holton Public Schools (Education)
• Mark Eisenbarth, Administrator for the County of Muskegon (Government)
• Pete Klahorst, President of META Tool Technologies (Manufacturing)
• Tracy McDaniel, CEO of Muskegon Family Care (Professional)  
• Kathy Moore, Public Health Director for the County of Muskegon (Leadership Circle)
• Roger Morgenstern, Senior Public Information Director at Consumers Energy (retired) (Commerce)  
• Suzanne Tanis, Executive Director of Volunteer for Dental (Non-Profit)
• Andy Usik, Business Banking Market Manager | Vice President at Fifth Third Bank (Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate – F.I.R.E.)
• Casey Walukonis, Solutions Specialist for Heiden Technologies (Ambassadors)
• Mike Weessies, CEO of Hackley Community Care (Loaned Executives)

United Way has a long-standing tradition of serving as a catalyst for positive change, working collaboratively with local partners to provide critical support in areas such as building healthy families, early childhood and youth success, and economic mobility. The 2023 community campaign seeks to build on this legacy and amplify the impact of every dollar raised, fostering a stronger, more resilient community for all. 

“Last year our community served more than 133,000 individuals through the help of thousands of local contributors from our caring community,” stated Christine Robere, President and CEO. “Your gift changes lives right here in our neighborhood. On behalf of our Board, our Campaign Cabinet, and our agency partners, I invite you to join us in this noble cause in a way that is meaningful to you. Together, we can uplift children and families across the Lakeshore!” 

The One Lakeshore Community Campaign officially kicks off tomorrow, Friday, September 8 as part of Day of Caring. Through a variety of engaging events, corporate partnerships, and individual contributions, United Way aims to surpass its fundraising goal results from the prior year and empower positive transformations that benefit all communities across the Lakeshore. 

“As we launch the 2023 One Lakeshore Community Campaign, I can not help but feel a surge of excitement and positivity. This is not just a campaign, this is a movement fueled by real stories, real needs, and real dreams and aspirations of our community,” shares J. J. Lewis, Chief Development Officer. “Together, we will not shy away from, challenges; we are embracing them through the eyes of determination. Through every dollar raised and each volunteer moment given, we are turning goals into action. Get ready to become part of a campaign that will authentically and unapologetically remain focused on creating a better tomorrow for all those who live, work, learn, and play across the Lakeshore!”